A Lowveld Media journalist, Tumelo Waga Dibakwane, was nominated for the Media Personality of the Year Award at the Sunrise Excellence Awards 2023.

He said this nomination is an indication of his exceptional talent, dedication and outstanding contributions to the local media industry, and also a testament to the impact the media can have in changing people’s lives.

“I am elated to have been nominated. It shows that the people of Nsikazi have noticed my work and support what I do. I have been a journalist for 10 years, and I enjoy what I do. The nomination has encouraged me to work even harder,” he said.

As a community journalist based in Bushbuckridge and Hazyview, he has been actively involved in a variety of socio-economic issues on which he reported, and saw positive outcomes for many people at grassroots level.

“I have covered a myriad of stories, some of which have highlighted the plight of township and village life. Also, I have endured threats that did not stop me, but created a bigger passion in me to report atrocities so those guilty are held accountable for their wrongdoings,” he said.

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Dibakwane said winning this award would mean he has achieved his dreams, and hopefully be an inspiration to the youngsters hoping to venture into journalism.

“As a journalist from the small village of Marite, my dedication to the truth, without fear or prejudice, serves as a good example for many young people who would otherwise allow their backgrounds to make them feel inferior, to take the journalism industry head-on.”

This is his second nomination as a journalist. He was nominated for the Media Personality of the Year at the Game Lifestyle Awards in 2022.

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He appreciates everyone who is voting for him and those who are rallying behind him to win the award.

To vote for Dibakwane, SMS ABMF169 to 40439. Each SMS costs R2.